Tampa: Don Bosco Gala 2026

By Alex Gonzalez, Communications Director, Mary Help of Christians Center

(Tampa, FL – March 4) – This year’s Don Bosco Gala took place on Saturday, February 21, at the Mary Help of Christians Center.

The theme, “From water to wine,” is exactly what took place that evening. The gym was transformed into a beautiful venue, where 250 guests gathered, mingled, toasted our honorees, and contributed to the church beautification project. It was great to see participants from the various sectors of the Mary Help family. Everyone was represented!

We were honored to salute our five honorees:

• Tom and Kay Conroy – long-time members of the facilities department and the founders of Mary Has a Little Farm, a unique ministry celebrating God’s creation and nature. In the past year, close to 5,000 people from 100 school groups participated in this program.
• Fr. John Nazzaro, SDB – served in Tampa from 1988-1998 as the last principal of Mary Help of Christians School as a boarding school. Fr. John, who is really a jack-of-all-trades, was so much more than a principal. He was, and continues to be, a priest, counselor, friend, repairman, cook, and more to so many people. Fr. John is the director of the Orange, NJ, community for young Salesians in formation.
• Lorenzo Olvera – a member of our facilities team for more than 10 years, brings his trademark great smile and attitude to campus every day. He is responsible for keeping our property well-landscaped, and he and his wife assist with Emmaus retreats from various parishes on weekends.
• Fr. Steve Ryan, SDB – who served as the Center’s director from 2012- 2018. During his time as director, there was a desire to establish a new educational program for young people on campus. After a period of discernment and discussion, Cristo Rey Tampa Salesian High School opened its doors ten years ago. Today, Fr. Steve is the director of the Marrero, LA, community and head of the school at Archbishop Shaw High School.

This wonderful evening was made possible by our gala committee and the generous support of our volunteers, including the Camp Mary Help staff, the Center staff, and the Mama Margaret Guild, all under the direction of Stephen Watkins, Director of Mission Advancement.

We are grateful for everyone’s participation and donations to the Center and its projects.

The proceeds from this evening will assist in the renovation of Mary Help of Christians Church.

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